Air distribution system for a pneumatic conveying system

ABSTRACT

A plenum of distributing a flow of air from an air source includes ports extending from a face element of a body. The ports are configured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum, and the ports are arranged on the face element in a first row having first length, a second row having a second length, and a third row having a third length. The first row is positioned proximate to the top element, the third row is positioned proximate to the bottom element, and the second row is positioned between the first row and the third row. In addition, the second length is greater than the first length and the third length, and a shape of the face element is configured to accommodate the first length of the first row, the second length of the second row, and the third length of the third row.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/872,089, entitled “AIR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM FOR A PNEUMATIC CONVEYINGSYSTEM,” filed Jan. 16, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/055,794, entitled “AIR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM FOR APNEUMATIC CONVEYING SYSTEM,” filed Feb. 29, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No.9,902,571, issued Feb. 27, 2018. Each of the foregoing applications isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to an air distribution systemfor a pneumatic conveying system.

Generally, agricultural implements are towed behind an off-road workvehicle, such as a tractor. These agricultural implements typicallyinclude multiple rows of ground engaging opener assemblies configured toexcavate trenches into soil and to deposit a granular product, such asseeds or fertilizer, into the trenches. The granular product may bestored in a central location, such as in storage tank(s) of an air cart,and distributed to each of the ground engaging opener assemblies fordeposition into the soil. However, the flow of granular product from theair cart may be uneven, thereby resulting in uneven distribution of thegranular product to the ground engaging opener assemblies and/orpotential plugging of distribution hoses.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one embodiment, a plenum of distributing a flow of air from an airsource includes a body having an inlet positioned at a first end of thebody and configured receive the flow of air from the air source. Thebody also includes a first side coupled to a top element and to a bottomelement, in which the top element is opposite the bottom element. Inaddition, the body includes a second side, opposite the first side,coupled to the top element and the bottom element, and a face elementdisposed on a second end of the body, opposite the first end. The plenumalso includes multiple ports extending from the face element andconfigured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum. The ports arearranged on the face element in a first row having first length, asecond row having a second length, and a third row having a thirdlength, the first row is positioned proximate to the top element, thethird row is positioned proximate to the bottom element, and the secondrow is positioned between the first row and the third row. In addition,the second length is greater than the first length and the third length,and a shape of the face element is configured to accommodate the firstlength of the first row, the second length of the second row, and thethird length of the third row.

In another embodiment, a plenum for distributing a flow of air from anair source includes a body having an inlet positioned at a first end ofthe body and configured to receive the flow of air from the air source.The plenum also includes a face element positioned on a second end ofthe body, opposite the first end, and at least one outlet port extendingfrom the face element and configured to direct the flow of air out ofthe plenum. In addition, the plenum includes a baffle assembly disposedwithin the body and configured to control the flow of air through theplenum. The baffle assembly includes at least one baffle and anadjustment assembly, and the adjustment assembly is configured tocontrol an angle of the at least one baffle, a lateral position of theat least one baffle, or a combination thereof.

In another embodiment, a plenum for distributing a flow of air from anair source includes a body having an inlet positioned at a first end ofthe body and configured receive the flow of air from the air source, anda face element positioned on a second end of the body, opposite thefirst end. The plenum also includes multiple ports extending from theface element and configured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum.In addition, the plenum includes a flow restrictor configured to bedisposed within one port. The flow restrictor includes a lip configuredto engage a distal end of the one port to block movement of the flowrestrictor into the body while the flow restrictor is disposed withinthe one port, and the flow restrictor includes an internal passagehaving a minimum cross-sectional area less than a minimum internalcross-sectional area of the one port.

DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood when the following detaileddescription is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in whichlike characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side view of an agricultural implement and an air cart, inaccordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a seeding systemconfigured to supply pressurized air and seeds to the agriculturalimplement of FIG. 1 and to supply pressurized air to a tank of the aircart of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of an air distribution systemthat may be employed within the seeding system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a plenum that may beemployed within the air distribution system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a front view of the plenum of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the plenum of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a sectional top view of the plenum of FIG. 4, taken along theline 7-7 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the plenum of FIG. 4,taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 9 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the plenum of FIG. 4, takenwithin line 9-9 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a side view of the plenum of FIG. 4;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a plenum that maybe employed within the air distribution system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the plenum of FIG. 11,taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a further embodiment a plenum that maybe employed within the air distribution system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the plenum of FIG. 13, taken alongline 14-14 of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a portion of the plenum of FIG. 11,including flow restrictors; and

FIG. 16 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the plenum of FIG. 15,taken along line 16-16.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will bedescribed below. In an effort to provide a concise description of theseembodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not bedescribed in the specification. It should be appreciated that in thedevelopment of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering ordesign project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be madeto achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance withsystem-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from oneimplementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that sucha development effort might be complex and time consuming, but wouldnevertheless be a routine undertaking (e.g., of designing, fabricating,and/or manufacturing) for those of ordinary skill having the benefit ofthis disclosure.

When introducing elements of various embodiments of the presentdisclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended tomean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,”“including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean thatthere may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Anyexamples of operating parameters and/or environmental conditions are notexclusive of other parameters/conditions of the disclosed embodiments.

Certain agricultural implements may distribute a granular product (e.g.,seeds or fertilizer) from a centralized location to multiple row units,such as ground engaging opener assemblies. Additionally, each of theground engaging opener assemblies may engage soil to excavate a trenchinto the soil and to deposit the received granular product into thesoil. The granular product may be any suitable particulate material thatis desired to be deposited into the soil, such as various types of seedsand fertilizers. However, to simplify the following discussion, theproduct will be described as seeds. Nevertheless, one of ordinary skillin the art would recognize that the techniques described herein may beeasily adapted for use with other products.

In certain embodiments, each of the ground engaging opener assembliesmay not include adjustable control over the deposition of seeds.Instead, each ground engaging opener assembly may pneumatically receiveseeds via a pneumatic hose (e.g., extending from a header of theimplement). The ground engaging opener assembly may then utilize gravityto drop received seeds into a trench. In other words, the groundengaging opener assembly may deposit seeds based on fixed parameters,such as the size of the hose and/or the flow rate of seeds to the groundengaging opener assembly, among other factors. However, in certainembodiments, the ground engaging opener assemblies may includeadjustable control(s) over the deposition of seeds (e.g., via a seedmeter).

Generally, the seeds may be stored in a centralized location, such as instorage tanks of an air cart, before being distributed to each of theground engaging opener assemblies (e.g., via pneumatic hoses, headers,etc.). In certain embodiments, the centralized location is pressurized(e.g., via a pneumatic hose). In certain embodiments, seed distributionfrom the centralized location to the ground engaging opener assembliesis controlled (e.g., metered). However, when multiple ground engagingopener assemblies are utilized, seeds may not be equally distributed toeach of the ground engaging opener assemblies. In addition, thepneumatic hoses which convey the seeds to the ground engaging openerassemblies may become clogged.

Additionally, it may be desirable to deposit seeds using only a portionof the ground engaging opener assemblies. For example, duringplanting/seeding operations, a portion of the agricultural implement maybe positioned over a portion of the soil that was previously seeded orover a portion of the soil that is undesirable to seed (e.g., aheadland, etc.). In such instances, it may be desirable to control seedflow to various portions of the agricultural implement (e.g., byenabling a portion of the seed meters that provide seeds to certainground engaging opener assemblies while disabling another portion ofseed meters that provide seeds to other ground engaging openerassemblies). However, when seed flow to certain ground engagingassemblies is disabled, air flow through the pneumatic hoses that supplythe disabled ground engaging assemblies may increase due to the reducedresistance associated with termination of the seed flow through thehoses, a condition which may be known as “preferential flow”. Theincreased air flow through the hoses may reduce the air flow into thetank, thereby reducing the pressure within the tank. As a result, theaccuracy of seed metering into the pneumatic hoses may be reduced.

Accordingly, as will be described in more detail below, a system forsupplying air to an agricultural implement and a seed tank is disclosed.For example, a plenum is coupled to an air source and configured todirect the air from the air source toward the ground engaging openerassemblies of the agricultural implement. The plenum includes outletports configured to couple to hoses that distribute the air to theground engaging opener assemblies (e.g., via headers, secondary hoses,etc.). Additionally, the plenum includes a pressurization portconfigured to supply pressurized air to the tank, or in certainembodiments, to multiple tanks. While ground engaging opener assembliesare disclosed herein, it should be appreciated that the seeds and/orother agricultural products may be distributed via the flow of airthrough the hoses to other types of row units (e.g., nozzles, outletpassages, etc.).

To help illustrate, a side view of an agricultural implement 10 coupledto an air cart 12 is shown in FIG. 1. As depicted, the agriculturalimplement 10 includes a tool frame 14 coupled to a ground engagingopener assembly 16, a header 18, and wheel assemblies 20. Theagricultural implement 10 may be pulled by an off-road work vehicle(e.g., a tractor), thereby enabling the agricultural implement 10 todeposit rows of product (e.g., seed). Accordingly, the wheel assemblies20 may contact the soil surface to enable the agricultural implement 10to be pulled by the off-road work vehicle. As the agricultural implement10 is pulled, a row of product may be deposited into the soil by theground engaging opener assembly 16. Although only one ground engagingopener assembly 16 is shown, the agricultural implement 10 may includemultiple ground engaging opener assemblies 16 organized in a row acrossthe agricultural implement 10. In some embodiments, the agriculturalimplement 10 may include a row of 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, or more groundengaging opener assemblies 16, which may each deposit a row of seeds.

To facilitate depositing seeds, each ground engaging opener assembly 16includes an opener 17, a press wheel 19, and a seed tube 21. Duringoperation, the opener 17 engages the soil, thereby excavating a trenchinto the soil as the ground engaging opener assembly 16 travels throughthe field. Seeds may then be deposited into the excavated trench via theseed tube 21. Then, the press wheel 19 may pack soil onto the seeds. Thedeposition of seeds by the ground engaging opener assembly 16 may becontrolled by the distribution of seeds from the header 18. In someembodiments, the header 18 may pneumatically distribute the seeds from aprimary hose to a second hose 22 (e.g., one secondary hose may connectthe header 18 to each respective ground engaging opener assembly 16).For example, a primary hose 34 may direct seeds from the air cart 12 tothe header 18. Additionally, the header 18 may distribute the seeds tothe ground engaging opener assembly 16 via the secondary hose 22. Incertain embodiments, multiple hoses 34 may direct seeds to multipleheaders 18 of the agricultural implement 10. Moreover, multiple hoses 22may be coupled to multiple respective opener assemblies 16. While theillustrated ground engaging opener assembly 16 includes a press wheel19, it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the presswheel may be omitted.

In the depicted embodiment, the air cart 12 is towed behind theagricultural implement 10. For example, the agricultural implement 10may be coupled to the off-road work vehicle by a first hitch assembly,and the air cart 12 may be coupled to the agricultural implement 10 by asecond hitch assembly 24. However, in other embodiments, theagricultural implement may be towed behind the air cart. In furtherembodiments, the implement and the air cart may be part of a single unitthat is towed behind an off-road work vehicle, or the implement and theair cart may be elements of a self-propelled vehicle.

As described above, the air cart 12 may centrally store seeds anddistribute the seeds to the headers 18. Accordingly, as depicted, theair cart 12 includes a storage tank 26, a frame 28, wheels 30, and anair source 32. The towing hitch 24 is coupled between the tool frame 14and the air cart frame 28, which enables the air cart 12 to be towedwith the agricultural implement 10. Additionally, the storage tank 26may centrally store the product. In some embodiments, the storage tank26 may include multiple compartments for storing different types ofproducts. For example, a first compartment may store seeds, while asecond compartment may store a dry fertilizer. In such configurations,the air cart 12 may deliver both seed and fertilizer to the implement 10via separate product delivery systems, or as a mixture through a singleproduct delivery system. In certain embodiments, the air cart mayinclude multiple tanks (e.g., a first tank for storing seeds and asecond tank for storing dry fertilizer, etc.). In such embodiments, eachtank may include one or more compartments.

From the storage tank 26, the product (e.g., seeds) is fed into ametering system 33, which meters the seeds into respective hoses 34. Thehoses 34 convey the seeds to the headers 18 via an air flow through thehoses. As depicted, the metering system 33 is mounted below the storagetank 26. In certain embodiments, the metering system 33 may include oneor more meter rollers (e.g., driven to rotate by hydraulic motor(s),electric motor(s), a mechanical coupling to an air cart wheel, etc.).The air flow through the hoses 34 is provided by the air source 32,which is pneumatically coupled to the hoses 34 via a plenum 36. In someembodiments, the air source 32 may be a pump or blower powered by anelectric or hydraulic motor, for example.

In certain embodiments (e.g., embodiments in which the air cart is towedbehind the implement, embodiments in which the air cart is towed infront of the implement, etc.), the air source and/or the plenum may bemounted to a rear portion of the air cart (e.g., relative to a directionof travel 38). In further embodiments (e.g., embodiments in which theair cart is towed in front of the implement, embodiments in which theair cart is towed behind the implement, etc.), the air source and/or theplenum may be mounted to a front portion of the air cart (e.g., relativeto the direction of travel 38). Furthermore, in embodiments in which theair cart includes multiple product delivery systems, multiple airsources and/or plenums may be utilized. For example, if the air cartincludes two separate product delivery systems for separatelydistributing seeds and fertilizer to the ground engaging openerassemblies, the air cart may include two air sources and two plenums(e.g., one air source and one plenum for each product delivery system).In embodiments in which the air cart includes a single product deliverysystem (e.g., in which one or more products are metered from one or moremetering systems into each pneumatic hose), a single air source and/or asingle plenum may be utilized. In certain embodiments, multiple airsources and/or multiple plenums may provide an air flow to multiplegroups of hoses (e.g., one group of hoses coupled to each plenum). Insuch embodiments, corresponding hoses from each group may merge in themetering system, thereby establishing a combined flow to the implement.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a seeding system 40configured to supply pressurized air and seeds to the agriculturalimplement of FIG. 1 and to supply pressurized air to the tank of the aircart of FIG. 1. In certain embodiments, the seeding system 40 includes aproduct delivery system 41 configured to distribute granular product andair to the agricultural implement 10. In addition, the seeding system 40includes an air distribution system 42 configured to supply pressurizedair to the product delivery system 41 and to the tank 26 of the aircart. In the illustrated embodiment, the air distribution system 42includes the air source 32 and the plenum 36, and the air source 32 isconfigured to supply a flow of pressurized air to the plenum 36. As willbe described in detail below, the plenum 36 is configured to receive theair from the air source 32 and to distribute the air throughout theproduct delivery system 41. In the illustrated embodiment, the hoses 34couple to the plenum 36 to direct air from the plenum 36 to the meteringsystem 33 of the product delivery system 41. The plenum 36 may couple to1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or any suitablenumber of hoses 34 to distribute air to the metering system 33.Moreover, a pressurization hose 44 extends from the plenum 36 to thetank 26. In certain embodiments, the pressurization hose 44 may supplyair to multiple tanks (e.g., in a serial configuration or a parallelconfiguration). In such embodiments, the air flow to each tank may becontrolled by valves. As mentioned above, the tank 26 is pressurized toenhance seeding and/or metering operations. For example, seeds may flowfrom the tank 26 to the metering system 33 through inlets into themetering system. The air pressure within the tank 26 may be greater thanthe air pressure within the metering system 33 at the inlets (e.g., dueto the reduced cross-sectional area of the air flow paths through themetering system at the inlets). The pressure differential may encourageseeds to flow from the tank into the metering system.

Moreover, the tank 26 is configured to supply seeds to the meteringsystem 33. In certain embodiments, the metering system 33 is coupleddirectly to the tank 26. For example, the metering system 33 may beintegral with the tank 26. The metering system 33 is configured toreceive the seeds from the tank 26 and to control a flow of the seedsinto the hoses 34, which receive the air flow from the plenum 36. Theseeds and pressurized air combine in the metering system 33, and thepressurized air carries and/or directs the seeds toward the groundengaging opener assemblies of the agricultural implement for depositingseeds into the soil. In certain embodiments, each hose 34 may includemultiple sections (e.g., one section extending from the plenum to themetering system and another section extending from the metering systemto the header). Each section may be formed from a flexible conduit or asubstantially rigid line. Each hose may be formed from any suitablenumber of sections (e.g., including one or more flexible conduits and/orone or more substantially rigid lines, etc.).

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of an air distribution system42 that may be employed within the seeding system of FIG. 2. In theillustrated embodiment, the air distribution system 42 includes two airsources 32, two plenums 36 and a support frame 46. The support frame 46is configured to couple to the frame of the air cart to support the airsources 32 and the plenums 36. In the illustrated embodiment, each airsource 32 is coupled to the support frame 46, and each plenum 36 iscoupled to a respective air source 32. However, it should be appreciatedthat in alternative embodiments, the plenums, or the air sources and theplenums, may be coupled to the support frame. As illustrated, hoses 34are coupled to respective outlet ports of each plenum 36 and configuredto direct the air from the plenums to the product delivery system (e.g.,each plenum may be configured to direct air toward a respective meteringsystem of the product delivery system). As previously discussed, theseeds and pressurized air combine in the metering system, and thepressurized air carries and/or directs the seeds toward the groundengaging opener assemblies of the agricultural implement for depositingseeds into the soil. While the illustrated embodiment includes twoplenums 36 (e.g., one for each metering system), it should beappreciated that in certain embodiments, the air distribution system mayinclude more or fewer plenums (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more). Forexample, in certain embodiments, the top plenum and top air source(e.g., the plenum and the air source above the lateral bar of thesupport frame) or the bottom plenum and bottom air source (e.g., theplenum and the air source below the lateral bar of the support frame)may be omitted. Furthermore, while a single air source is pneumaticallycoupled to each plenum in the illustrated embodiment, it should beappreciated that in alternative embodiments, multiple air sources (e.g.,2, 3, 4, or more) may be pneumatically coupled to each plenum. Forexample, in certain embodiments, the air distribution system 42 mayinclude a single plenum and two air sources pneumatically coupled to thesingle plenum for providing the air flow.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a plenum that may beemployed within the air distribution system of FIG. 3. In theillustrated embodiment, the plenum 36 includes a body 48 and a flange 50positioned at a first end 52 of the body 48. The plenum 36 also includesoutlet ports 54 positioned at a second end 56 of the body 48. In theillustrated embodiment, the plenum 36 includes an inlet 58 configured tofluidly couple to the air source (e.g., via coupling of the flange 50 toa body of the air source) and to direct air from the air source into theplenum 36. As illustrated, the flange 50 includes apertures 59configured to rigidly couple the plenum 36 to a body of a respective airsource (e.g., via fasteners). However, in other embodiments, the flange50 may be welded, clamped, or otherwise secured to the air source orconduit. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the flange may be coupled toa hose or duct that supplies air from the air source.

In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet ports 54 are configured tocouple to the hoses to supply pressurized air to the metering systemand, as a result, to the agricultural implement. For example, the hoses34 may be clamped or otherwise coupled to the outlet ports 54. Theoutlet ports 54 are generally cylindrical and positioned on a faceelement 60 at the second end 56 of the plenum body 48. In theillustrated embodiment, the face element 60 is substantially hexagonal.However, it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, theface element may be elliptical, octagonal, circular, rectangular,square, diamond, or any other suitable shape.

The body 48 of the plenum 36 is formed by a first side 62 and a secondside 64, each coupled to a top element 66 and a bottom element 68. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the first and second sides 62, 64 aresubstantially mirrored or symmetrical about a longitudinal centerline70. Additionally, the top and bottom elements 66, 68 are also mirroredabout the longitudinal centerline 70. However, in other embodiments, thefirst and second sides 62, 64 and/or the top and bottom elements 66, 68may be asymmetrical about the longitudinal centerline 70. For example,an asymmetrical plenum may establish desired flow characteristics at theoutlet ports 54 for certain air sources (e.g., air sources that generateasymmetrical air flows). In addition, an asymmetrical plenum may beemployed to turn the air flow from the inlet to the outlet ports. Forexample, the plenum body may be shaped such that the face element andthe outlet ports are oriented at an angle relative to the inlet (e.g.,at a 45 degree angle, at a 90 degree angle, etc.). As used herein, flowcharacteristics may refer to the pressure, velocity, flow rate, or acombination thereof, of air flow. In the illustrated embodiment, thefirst and second sides 62, 64 each include a first section 72, a secondsection 74, and a third section 76. In the illustrated embodiment, thefirst section 72 and the second section 74 are substantially flat, onthe first and second sections 72 and 74 are connected to the faceelement 60, and only the third section 76 is connected to the flange 50.While each side includes three sections in the illustrated embodiment,it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, each side mayinclude more or fewer sections (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more).

In the illustrated embodiment, edges 75 between the first and secondsides 62, 64 and the top and bottom elements 66, 68 (e.g., the edge 75between the third section 76 of the first side 62 and the top element66, the edge 75 between the first section 72 of the first side 62 andthe top element 66, etc.) are rounded or arcuate. In addition,transitions 77 between sections of each side (e.g., the transition 77between the first section 72 and the third section 76 of the first side62, the transition 77 between the first section 72 and the secondsection 74 of the first side 62, etc.) are rounded or arcuate. However,in other embodiments, the edges 75 and/or transitions 77 may bechamfered, angled, or any other suitable shape to enhance the structuralintegrity of the plenum 36, to enhance the air distribution propertiesof the plenum 36, to facilitate the assembly and/or production of theplenum 36, to reduce the pressure drop through the plenum 36, or acombination thereof. Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment,transitions 79 are formed at the interface between the sides 62, 64 andthe face element 60, between the sides 62, 64 and the flange 50, betweenthe top and bottom elements 66, 68 and the face element 60, and betweenthe top and bottom elements 66, 68 and the flange 50. In the illustratedembodiment, the transitions 79 are generally rounded or arcuate.However, in other embodiments, the transitions 79 may be chamfered,linear, angled, or any other suitable shape to enhance the structuralintegrity of the plenum 36, to enhance the air distribution propertiesof the plenum 36, to facilitate the assembly and/or production of theplenum 36, to reduce the pressure drop through the plenum 36, or acombination thereof.

While the top element 66 and the bottom element 68 are substantiallyflat in the illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that inalternative embodiments, the top element and/or the bottom element maybe contoured to establish desired air flow characteristics at the outletports 54. For example, in certain embodiments, the top element and/orthe bottom element may include one or more substantially linear portionsand/or one or more curved portions. For example, the top element and/orthe bottom element may have a continuous curve between the flange 50(e.g., at the first end 52) and the face element 60 (e.g., at the secondend 56).

Turning to the outlet ports 54, in the illustrated embodiment, theoutlet ports 54 are positioned in an approximately symmetricalarrangement relative to the longitudinal centerline 70. Accordingly, theoutlet ports 54 are positioned on opposite lateral sides of apressurization port 78. In the illustrated embodiment, thepressurization port 78 is centered laterally (e.g., centered along alateral axis 80) and vertically (e.g., centered along the vertical axis82) on the face element 60. For example, in the illustrated embodiment,the longitudinal centerline 70 is coaxial with the pressurization port78. However, it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments,the pressurization port may be positioned at other locations on the faceelement (e.g., vertically and/or laterally offset from the longitudinalcenterline). For example, the pressurization port may be laterallycentered on the face element, and vertically offset from thelongitudinal centerline. The pressurization port 78 is configured todirect an air flow to the tank(s) to maintain a positive pressure withinthe tank(s) during seeding operations. Moreover, by providing thepressurization port 78 in a central region of the face element 60 (e.g.,laterally centered on the face element 60), seed flow to variousportions of the implement may be controlled without significantlyimpacting the pressurization of the tank(s). For example, when seed flowto certain ground engages assemblies is disabled, air flow through thehoses that supply the disabled ground engages assemblies may increasedue to the reduced resistance associated with termination of the seedflow through the hoses. Because the pressurization port 78 is centeredlaterally on the face element 60, the pressurization port 78 may receivea sufficient air flow despite the air flow imbalance between outletports 54. Accordingly, the pressure within the tank(s) may bemaintained, thereby maintaining the accuracy of seed metering into thehoses.

In embodiments in which the air cart includes multiple tanks, each tankmay be pressurized during control of seed flow to various portions ofthe implement (e.g., via a respective plenum, via a network of linesextending from the pressurization line, via multiple pressurizationlines extending from multiple pressurization ports of a single plenum,etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, each outlet port 54 includes anoutlet transition 84 extending between the outlet port 54 and the faceelement 60. For example, the transition 84 may be rounded, tapered, orchamfered, among other shapes/profiles. In certain embodiments, theoutlet transition 84 may include a fitting configured to couple theoutlet port 54 to the face element 60. However, in other embodiments,the outlet ports 54 and/or the pressurization port 78 (e.g., includingthe respective transitions) may be integrally formed with the body 48 ofthe plenum 36. For example, in certain embodiments, the plenum 36 may bea single piece formed from a metal (e.g., via a casting process),polymer (e.g., via a rotational molding (rotomolding) process), or anyother suitable material. The hoses are configured to couple to theoutlet ports 54 such that desired flow characteristics (e.g., a desiredpressure profile and uniform velocity) is provided to the agriculturalimplement via the hoses.

In the illustrated embodiment, three ribs 86, 88, and 90 are formed onthe top element 66 of the plenum body 48. In addition, as discussed indetail below, three corresponding ribs are formed on the bottom element68 of the plenum body 48. The ribs are configured to enhance thestructural rigidity of the top and bottom elements. For example, airflowing through the inlet 58 may cause the plenum 36 to becomepressurized, thereby establishing a load on each side/element of theplenum 36. The ribs on the top and bottom elements may enable theelements to resist the pressure load, thereby substantially reducingdeformation of the elements. As a result, the flow characteristics atthe outlet ports 54, which may be affected by the shape of the top andbottom elements 66, 68, may be substantially maintained while the plenum36 is pressurized.

In the illustrated embodiment, the plenum 36 includes the first rib 86extending along a longitudinal axis 92 and is substantially aligned withthe longitudinal centerline 70, the second rib 88 is positionedproximate to the first side 62, and the third rib 90 is positionedproximate to the second side 64. As discussed in detail below, each ribis substantially aligned with the air flow proximate to the rib. Inaddition, each rib is particularly shaped to reduce the effect of therib on the flow characteristics at the outlet ports 54 and/or tofacilitate manufacturing of the plenum 36 (e.g., to reduce manufacturingcosts). While the illustrated embodiment includes three ribs, it shouldbe appreciated that more or fewer ribs may be utilized in alternativeembodiments. For example, in certain embodiments, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ormore ribs may be formed on the top element 66 and/or the bottom element68.

In the illustrated embodiment, the plenum 36 is formed by a rotationalmolding (rotomolding) process. For example, in certain embodiments, thebody 48, the flange 50, the outlet ports 54, and the pressurization port78 may be formed from a single piece of polymeric material via therotational molding process. In addition, the ribs may be formed on thetop and bottom elements by the rotational molding process (e.g., therotational mold/tool may include recesses that correspond to the ribs).By forming the body 48, the flange 50, the outlet ports 54, thepressurization port 78, and the ribs 86, 88, 90 from a single piece ofmaterial via a rotational molding process, the manufacturing cost of theplenum 36 may be significantly reduced, as compared to plenums formed bycoupling multiple separately formed components to one another. However,in certain embodiment, the face element of the body, the outlet ports,and the pressurization port may be formed separately from the remainderof the body and the flange (e.g., the remainder of the body and theflange formed by a rotomolding process). In such embodiments, the faceelement (e.g., with the ports attached) may be coupled to the remainderof the body (e.g., by fasteners, etc.).

FIG. 5 is a front view of the plenum of FIG. 4. As described above, theoutlet ports 54 are arranged on the face element 60 in a substantiallysymmetrical arrangement relative to the longitudinal centerline 70. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the outlet ports 54 are arranged on the faceelement 60 in a first row 94 having a first length 96 (e.g., extent ofthe outlet ports 54 of the first row 94 along the lateral axis 80,including the transitions 84), the outlet ports 54 and thepressurization port 78 are arranged on the face element 60 in a secondrow 98 having a second length 100 (e.g., extent of the outlet ports 54and the pressurization port 78 of the second row 98 along the lateralaxis 80, including the transitions 84), and the outlet ports 54 arearranged on the face element 60 in a third row 102 having a third length104 (e.g., extent of the outlet ports 54 of the third row 102 along thelateral axis 80, including the transitions 84). While the transitions 84are included in the length of each row, it should be appreciated that incertain embodiments, the length may be determined without consideringlateral extent of the transitions. The first row 94 is positionedproximate to the top element 66, the third row 102 is positionedproximate to the bottom element 68, and the second row 98 is positionedbetween the first row 94 and the third row 102. As illustrated, thesecond length 100 is greater than the first length 96 and the thirdlength 104, and a shape of the face element 60 is configured toaccommodate the first length 96 of the first row 94, the second length100 of the second row 98, and the third length 104 of the third row 102.

The shape of the face element 60 may be particularly selected to reducesurface area (e.g., the area of the face element that is not open to theports). Reducing the surface area of the face element 60 may reduce theturbulence caused by contact between the air flow and the face element.In the illustrated embodiment, the shape of the face element 60 issubstantially hexagonal. Accordingly, the surface area of the faceelement may be less than the surface area of a rectangular face element(e.g., which may include additional surface area at the ends of thefirst and third rows), thereby reducing turbulence. While theillustrated face element is substantially hexagonal in the illustratedembodiment, it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments,the face element may be elliptical, octagonal, circular, rectangular,square, diamond, or any other suitable shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first row 94 includes four outletports 54, the second row 98 includes four outlet ports 54 and thepressurization port 78 (i.e., five total ports), and the third row 102includes four outlet ports 54. As illustrated, the pressurization port78 is laterally centered on the second row 98. Accordingly, two outletports 54 are positioned on a first lateral side of the pressurizationport 78, and two outlet ports 54 are positioned on a second lateral sideof the pressurization port 78, opposite the first lateral side. As aresult, each row includes four outlet ports 54, and the second row 98includes the pressurization port 78. By positioning the pressurizationport 78 in the second row 98 and laterally centering the pressurizationport 78 within the second row 98, the pressurization port is centeredalong the lateral axis 80 and the vertical axis 82 on the face element60 of the plenum 36. Therefore, the pressurization port 78 may receive asufficient air flow despite an air flow imbalance between outlet ports54 (e.g., resulting from controlling seed flow to various portions ofthe implement). Accordingly, the pressure within the tank may bemaintained, thereby maintaining the accuracy of seed metering into thehoses. Moreover, including the same number of outlet ports 54 in eachrow may enable the desired flow characteristic through each outlet portto be achieved.

While the illustrated plenum includes four outlet ports on each row, itshould be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, each row mayinclude more or fewer outlet ports. For example, each row may include 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more outlet ports. In addition, while each rowincludes the same number of outlet ports in the illustrated embodiment,it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the number ofoutlet ports of each row may vary. For example, in certain embodiments,the second row may include more outlet ports than the first row and/orthe third row, or the first row and/or the third row may include moreoutlet ports than the second row. Furthermore, while the illustratedembodiment include three row of ports, it should be appreciated that inalternative embodiments the plenum may include more or fewer rows (e.g.,1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more) extending from the face element. For example,an additional row may be positioned between the second row and the thirdrow, in which the additional row includes four outlet ports and acentrally positioned pressurization port, and in which thepressurization port of the additional row is configured to supplypressurized air to a second tank. In addition, while the second rowincludes a single pressurization port in the illustrated embodiment, itshould be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the second rowmay include more or fewer pressurization ports (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, ormore). For example, the second row may include two pressurization portspositioned adjacent to one another with the pair of pressurization portscentered along the lateral axis. The length of each row may be based atleast in part on the number of ports within the row.

While the illustrated embodiment includes twelve outlet ports 54, inother embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or anysuitable number of outlet ports 54 may be included to provide air flowto the agricultural implement 10. Moreover, in certain embodiments, theoutlet ports 54 are arranged asymmetrically on the face element 60. Forexample, the spacing between adjacent outlet ports may be unequal.Furthermore, in other embodiments, the outlet ports 56 may be arrangedon the first side 62, the second side 64, the top element 66, and/or thebottom element 68 based on desired air flow through the outlet ports 56.In addition, while the illustrated embodiment includes a singlepressurization port 78, it should be appreciated that in alternativeembodiments, the plenum 36 may include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or morepressurization ports 78 (e.g., each laterally centered on the faceelement, each positioned proximate to the longitudinal axis/centerline,etc.). In such embodiments, certain pressurization ports may supply airto respective tanks, and/or multiple pressurization ports may supply airto a single tank.

As will be described in detail below, the plenum 36 includes a baffleassembly 106 configured to direct air flow from the inlet to the outletports 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the baffle assembly 106includes a first baffle 108 and a second baffle 110 disposed within theplenum 36. The first and second baffles 108, 110 are arranged at anangle, relative to one another, such that a first passage 112 is formedbetween the first and second baffles 108, 110. The first passage 112directs air flow down the longitudinal axis, while also enabling flowaround either side of the first and second baffles 108, 110.

The baffle assembly 106 is configured to produce desired flowcharacteristics (e.g., a pressure profile and uniform velocity/flowrate) through the plenum 36. For example, the baffle assembly 106 may beconfigured to direct the air flow through the plenum 36 such thatdifferent outlet ports 54 direct air toward the agricultural implement10 at different pressures (e.g., to account for different lengths of thehoses 34). By way of example, longer hoses (e.g., based on the totallength of the hose from the plenum to the header of the implement) maybe coupled to the outlet ports 54 providing higher pressures to accountfor line losses and to reduce the likelihood of plugging in the hoses.

In the illustrated embodiment, each outlet port 54 and thepressurization port 78 is aligned with the longitudinal axis. However,it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, certain portsmay be angled relative to the longitudinal axis. For example, in certainembodiments, the ports of the top row may be angled upwardly, and/or theports of the bottom row may be angled downwardly. Such an arrangementmay facilitate coupling the hoses to the plenum and/or provide thedesired flow characteristics through each port.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the plenum 36 of FIG. 4. As illustrated, thefirst rib 86 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal centerline70. A width 114 of the first rib 86 and a length 116 of the first rib 86may be particularly selected to enhance the structural rigidity of thetop element 66 without substantially interfering with the air flowthrough the plenum 36. For example, the width 114 of the first rib 86may be about 1 percent, about 2 percent, about 3 percent, about 4percent, about 5 percent, or more of a width 118 of the face element 60.By way of further example, the width 114 of the first rib 86 may beabout 1 to 10 percent, about 2 to 9 percent, or about 3 to 8 percent ofthe width 118 of the face element 60. In addition, the length 116 of thefirst rib 86 may be about 10 percent, about 20 percent, about 30percent, about 40 percent, about 50 percent, or more of a length 120 ofthe plenum body 48. By way of further example, the length 116 of thefirst rib 86 may be about 10 to 50 percent, about 15 to 45 percent, orabout 20 to 40 percent of the length 120 of the plenum body 48.Furthermore, the first rib 86 includes a rounded leading edge 122, arounded trailing edge 124, and rounded side edges 126. The rounded edgesmay substantially reduce the pressure drop of the air flow through theplenum 36, thereby substantially maintaining the desired flowcharacteristics at the outlet ports 54.

In the illustrated embodiment, the shapes of the second rib 88 and thethird rib 90 are substantially the same as the shape of the first rib86. That is, the length and width of the second and third ribs 88, 90are substantially equal to the length and width of the first rib 86. Inaddition, the second and third ribs 88, 90 each include a roundedleading edge, a rounded trailing edge, and rounded side edges. However,it should be appreciated that in certain embodiments, theshape/configuration of the second rib 88 and/or the third rib 90 may bedifferent than the shape/configuration of the first rib 86. For example,in certain embodiments, the width of the second rib 88 and/or the thirdrib 90 may be different than the width of the first rib 86. For example,the width of each rib may be selected such that the rib is as wide aspossible without contacting one of the baffles or a side of the plenumbody. In addition, the length of the second rib 88 and/or the third rib90 may be different than the length of the first rib 86.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second rib 88 is oriented at an angle128 relative to the longitudinal axis 92. In addition, the third rib 90is orientated at an angle 130 relative to the longitudinal axis 92. Theangles 128 and 130 may be particularly selected such that the effect ofthe ribs on the air flow through the plenum is substantially reduced.For example, each rib may be substantially oriented in the direction ofthe air flow proximate to the respective rib. Such an orientation maysubstantially reduce the pressure loss proximate to the rib, therebysubstantially maintaining the desired flow characteristics at the outletports 54. By way of example, the angles 128 and 130 may be about 2degrees, about 4 degrees, about 6 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 45degrees, or more. By way of further example, the angles 128 and 130 maybe about 1 to 45 degrees, about 2 to 30 degrees, about 3 to 20 degrees,or about 4 to 10 degrees. While the angles 128 and 130 are equal to oneanother in the illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that theangles 128 and 130 may be different from one another in alternativeembodiments (e.g., based on the direction of the air flow proximate toeach rib). In addition, it should be appreciated that the first rib 86may be oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 92 incertain embodiments.

While the ribs are substantially aligned with one another along thelongitudinal axis 92, it should be appreciated that one or more ribs maybe offset from one or more other ribs along the longitudinal axis 92.Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the ribs 86, 88, and 90protrude outwardly from the top element 66. However, it should beappreciated that in certain embodiments, one or more ribs may protrudeinwardly into an interior of the plenum body. In such embodiments, therib(s) may guide the air flow toward the outlet ports and/or toward thepressurization port. Furthermore, while the ribs extend perpendicularlyto the top element 66, it should be appreciated that in certainembodiments, the ribs may extend outwardly or inwardly from the topelement at an angle. Moreover, it should be appreciated that ribs (e.g.,1, 2, 3, 4, or more) may be formed on the first side 62 and/or thesecond side 64 of the plenum body 48, and/or on the face element 60.While the illustrated embodiment includes integrally molded ribs, itshould be appreciated that in certain embodiments, separately formedribs may be coupled to the plenum body.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first side 62 and the second side 64establish a width 132 at the first end 52, which is smaller than thewidth 118 of the face element 60 at the second end 56. As used herein,width refers to an extent of the body 48 of the plenum 36 along thelateral axis 80. As illustrated, the first and second sides 62, 64 flareout from the inlet 58 to the face element 60. In addition, the sectionof each side may be shaped to establish desired air flow characteristicsat the outlet ports 54.

FIG. 7 is a sectional top view of the plenum of FIG. 4, taken along theline 7-7 of FIG. 4. In the illustrated embodiment, three ribs 134, 136,138 are formed on the bottom element 68 of the plenum body 48. Theshape/configuration of each rib of the bottom element is substantiallythe same as the shape/configuration of each rib of the top element. Thatis, the length and width of each rib of the bottom element aresubstantially equal to the length and width of each rib of the topelement. Moreover, each rib of the bottom element includes a roundedlead edge, a rounded trailing edge, and rounded side edges. In addition,an angle of each rib of the bottom element is substantially equal to theangle of the corresponding rib of the top element. For example, thefourth rib 134 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 92,an angle of the fifth rib 136 relative to the longitudinal axis 92 issubstantially equal to the angle 128 of the second rib 88, and an angleof the sixth rib 138 relative to the longitudinal axis 92 issubstantially equal to the angle 130 of the third rib 90. In addition,the position of each rib 134, 136, 138 relative to the bottom element 68is substantially equal to the position of each rib 86, 88, 90 relativeto the top element 66. Accordingly, the first rib 86 and the fourth rib134 are symmetrical relative to the longitudinal centerline 70, thesecond rib 88 and the fifth rib 136 are symmetrical relative to thelongitudinal centerline 70, and the third rib 90 and the sixth rib 138are symmetrical relative to the longitudinal centerline 70. Furthermore,the ribs 134, 136, 138 protrude outwardly from the bottom element 68,and the ribs 134, 136, 138 are integrally formed with the plenum body(e.g., via a rotational molding process).

In certain embodiments, the shape/configuration of one or more ribs ofthe bottom element may be different than the shape/configuration of oneor more ribs of the top element. For example, the length and/or width ofone or more ribs of the bottom element may be different than the lengthand/or width of one or more ribs of the top element. In addition, anangle of one or more ribs of the bottom element may be different thanthe angle of the corresponding rib(s) of the top element. In addition,the position of one or more ribs 134, 136, 138 relative to the bottomelement 68 may be different than the position of the correspondingrib(s) relative to the top element 66. Furthermore, in certainembodiments, one or more ribs 134, 136, 138 may protrude inwardly fromthe bottom element 68, thereby extending into the interior of the plenumbody 48. Furthermore, while the ribs extend perpendicularly to thebottom element 68, it should be appreciated that in certain embodiments,the ribs may extend outwardly or inwardly from the bottom element at anangle. While the illustrated bottom element 68 includes three ribs, itshould be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the bottomelement 68 may include more or fewer ribs. For example, in certainembodiments, the bottom element 68 may include more or fewer ribs thanthe top element 66.

In the illustrated embodiment, the baffle assembly 106 is positionedproximate to the first end 52 of the plenum body 48. However, in otherembodiments, the baffle assembly 106 may be longitudinally centeredwithin the plenum 36 (e.g., the baffle assembly 106 may be substantiallyequidistant from the first end 52 and second end 56), proximate to thesecond end 56 of the plenum 36, or in any other suitable location todirect the air flow to the outlet ports 54. As illustrated, the firstbaffle 108 and the second baffle 110 are angled, relative to one another(and to the longitudinal axis 92), to form the first passage 112. As aresult, a first passage opening 140 is smaller than a second passageopening 142 (e.g., a cross-sectional area of the first passage opening140 is less than a cross-sectional area of the second passage opening142). As will be appreciated, the larger second passage opening 142 isconfigured to facilitate expansion of the flow within the first passage112. Accordingly, different outlet ports 54 may receive the air flowwith different pressures. Moreover, while the illustrated embodimentincludes two baffles 108, 110, in other embodiments 0, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, orany suitable number of baffles may be included to direct the air flowthrough the plenum 36. Supplying air to the outlet ports 54 withdifferent pressures may enable the hoses having different lengths toobtain the desired flow characteristics and reduce the likelihood ofplugging of the hoses.

The baffle assembly 106 extends from the bottom element 68 of the plenum36 to the top element 66 of the plenum 36. As a result, the baffleassembly forms three flow passages. The first passage 112 is disposedbetween the first and second baffles 108, 110. A second passage 144 isformed between the first side 62 of the plenum body 48 and the firstbaffle 108, and a third passage 146 is formed between the second side 64of the plenum body 48 and the second baffle 110. In certain embodiments,the first, second, and third passages 112, 144, 146 have varying flowcharacteristics based on the air flow from the air source. For example,the air source may introduce a high pressure air flow into the plenum 36at the inlet 58 that is directed toward the first passage 112. However,the first and second baffles 108, 110 are configured to divert a portionof the air flow toward the second and third passages 144, 146.Additionally, the configuration of the baffle assembly 106 may modifythe flow characteristics in each of the passages 112, 144, 146. Forexample, as the cross-sectional area of each flow passage increases, thevelocity of the flow traveling through the passage decreases. Moreover,the baffle assembly 106 may be configured to dissipate flow vortices atthe inlet 58 introduced by the air flow from the air source.Accordingly, the baffle assembly 106 may be configured to obtain desiredflow characteristics within the plenum 36.

In the illustrated embodiment, the baffle assembly 106 is symmetricalabout the longitudinal centerline 70. As such, the longitudinalcenterline 70 is coaxial with the lateral center of the first passage112. However, in other embodiments, the baffle assembly 106 may not besymmetric about the longitudinal centerline 70. For example, in certainembodiments the first baffle 108 may be arranged at a larger anglerelative to the longitudinal axis 92 than the second baffle 110. To thatend, the first baffle 108 is arranged at a first angle 148 relative tothe longitudinal axis 92. Moreover, the second baffle 110 is arranged ata second angle 150 relative to the longitudinal axis 92. In certainembodiments, the first and second angles 148, 150 are equal. However, inother embodiments, the first and second angles 148, 150 are not equal.In the illustrated embodiment, the first angle 148 is approximately 5degrees and the second angle 150 is approximately 5 degrees. However, inother embodiments, the first and second angles 148, 150 may be 2degrees, 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 40 degrees, 50 degrees, 70degrees, 80 degrees, or any other angle suitable for the operatingconditions. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the first and secondangles 148, 150 may be between 2 degrees and 30 degrees, between 30degrees and 50 degrees, between 50 degrees and 70 degrees, between 70degrees and 90 degrees, or any other suitable range based on theoperating conditions.

Moreover, the first and second baffles 108, 110 are configured to extenda distance along the length 120 of the plenum body 48 (e.g., an extentof the plenum body 48 along the longitudinal axis 92) to direct the airflow toward the outlet ports 54. For example, the first baffle 108 has afirst length 152 and the second baffle 110 has a second length 154. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the first length 152 is equal to the secondlength 154. However, in other embodiments, the first length 152 may notbe equal to the second length 154. For example, the first length 152 maybe longer than the second length 154 to further direct the air flow downthe second passage 144. In the illustrated embodiment, the first andsecond lengths 152, 154 are approximately 40 percent of the length 120of the plenum body 48. However, in other embodiments, the first andsecond lengths 152, 154 may be 10 percent, 20 percent, 30 percent, 50percent, 60 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent, 90 percent, or any suitablepercentage of the length 120 of the plenum body 48. Additionally, thefirst and second lengths 152, 154 may be between 10 and 40 percent, 40to 60 percent, 60 to 80 percent, or any suitable percentage of thelength 120 of the plenum body 48. As will be appreciated, the first andsecond lengths 152, 154 may be varied to obtain desirable flowcharacteristics within the plenum 36.

Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the baffle assembly 106 ispositioned proximate to the first end 52 of the plenum 36. The first andsecond baffles 106, 108 are positioned at an offset distance 156 fromthe inlet 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the offset distance 156 isapproximately 18 percent of the length 120 of the plenum body 48.However, in other embodiments, the offset distance 156 may be 5 percent,10 percent, 20 percent, 30 percent, 40 percent, 50 percent, or any othersuitable percentage of the length 120 to direct the air flow toward theoutlet ports 54. Additionally, the offset distance 156 may be between 5percent and 20 percent, 20 percent and 30 percent, 40 percent and 50percent, or any other suitable range of percentages of the length 120 ofthe plenum body 48. In certain embodiments, the first baffle 108 and thesecond baffle 110 are an equal offset distance 156 from the inlet 58.However, in other embodiments, the first baffle 108 may be closer to theinlet 58 or the second baffle 110 may be closer to the inlet 58. As willbe appreciated, the position of the baffle assembly 106 relative to theinlet 58 may be modified to obtain desirable flow characteristics in theplenum 36. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment includes a fixedbaffle assembly 106, in certain embodiments, the baffle assembly 106and/or the individual baffles of the baffle assembly 106 (e.g., thefirst baffle 108 and/or the second baffle 110) may be adjustable. Forinstance, the first and second baffles 108, 110 may be disposed on atrack that is configured to enable the first and second baffles 108, 110to adjust the offset distance 156. Furthermore, the first and secondangles 148, 150 may be adjustable. Additionally, in certain embodiments,the baffle assembly 106 may be automatically adjustable (e.g., viaactuators) to provide air flow customization.

Accordingly, the air flow may be regulated (e.g., controlled) throughthe plenum 36 to distribute air to different outlet ports 54 atdifferent velocities, flow rates, pressures, or a combination thereof.As previously discussed, the pressurization port 78 is configured tocouple to the pressurization hose to pressurize the tank. In certainembodiments, the desired pressure to the tank may be less than thedesired pressure of the hoses configured to direct the flow of air tothe agricultural implement. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the flowrate to the tank may also be lower than the flow rate to the hoses. Byutilizing a desirable configuration of the baffle assembly 106 and/or adesired shape of the plenum body 48, the flow rates and/or pressures atdifferent parts of the plenum 36 may be regulated to satisfy a varietyof desired pressure/flow conditions, such as providing the tank withlower pressure air at a lower flow rate than the air provided to theimplement.

In certain embodiments, a valve may be fluidly disposed between thepressurization port and the tank (e.g., along the pressurization hose)to control the pressure within the tank. Furthermore, in the illustratedembodiment, the outlet ports 54 and the pressurization port 78,including the respective transitions 84, are integrally formed with theplenum body 48. However, it should be appreciated that in alternativeembodiments, certain ports (e.g., including the respective transitions)may be formed separately and coupled to the plenum body (e.g., viawelding, bonding, fasteners, etc.).

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the plenum 36 of FIG. 4,taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4. In the illustrated embodiment, theplenum body 48, the flange 50, the outlet ports 54, the pressurizationport 78, and the ribs 86, 88, 90, 134, 136, 138 are formed from a singlepiece of material (e.g., via a rotational molding process). In theillustrated embodiment, the flange 50 includes a projection 158 thatextends about a periphery of the flange 50. The projection 158 isconfigured to enhance the structural rigidity of the flange 50 and/or tomaintain the flatness of a contact surface of the flange (e.g., toreduce warpage of the contact surface during a molding process), therebysubstantially reducing air leakage between the flange 50 and the airsource.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first baffle 108 and the secondbaffle 110 are integrally formed with the plenum body 48 (e.g., via therotational molding process, via an injection molding process, via acasting process, etc.). Accordingly, the plenum body 48, the flange 50,the outlet ports 54, the pressurization port 78, the ribs 86, 88, 90,134, 136, 138, and the baffles 108 and 110 may be formed from a singlepiece of material (e.g., polymeric material, metal material). As aresult, the manufacturing cost of the plenum 36 may be significantlyreduced, as compared to plenums formed by coupling multiple separatelyformed components to one another. In certain embodiments, the baffles108, 110 are formed around an element of a mold/tool during a rotationalmolding process. In such embodiments, the element is removed from thebaffles 108, 110 as the plenum 36 is released from the mold/tool. Incertain embodiments, plates may be inserted into the rotationally moldedbaffles to increase the structural rigidity of the baffles. Inalternative embodiments, the baffles 108, 110 are formed aroundrespective plates (e.g., metal plates) during the rotational moldingprocess. In such embodiments, the plates remain embedded in the baffles108, 110, thereby enhancing the structural rigidity of the baffles 108,110. In the illustrated embodiment, each baffle 108, 110 includes arounded leading edge 160, a rounded trailing edge 162, and rounded sideedges 164. The rounded edges may substantially reduce the pressure lossof the air flow through the plenum 36, thereby substantially maintainingthe desired flow characteristics at the outlet ports 54 and at thepressurization port 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the baffles 108,110 extend substantially perpendicularly to the top and bottom element66, 68. However, it should be appreciated that in certain embodiments,the baffles may be angled relative to the top element 66 and/or thebottom element 68.

FIG. 9 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the plenum 36 of FIG. 4,taken within line 9-9 of FIG. 7. As illustrated, a transition 84 extendsbetween the face element 60 and the pressurization outlet 78. Thetransition is configured to reduce the pressure drop of the air flowfrom the plenum body 48 to the pressurization outlet 78, therebymaintaining the desired flow characteristics at the pressurization port.The configuration (e.g., radius of curvature, length, profile, initialdiameter, etc.) of the transition may be particularly configured for theexpected flow through the plenum 36. For example, the transition 84 maybe rounded, tapered, or chamfered, among other shapes/profiles. In theillustrated embodiment, the transitions 84 extend between the faceelement 60 and respective outlet ports 54. In certain embodiments, thetransitions at the outlet ports 54 may be substantially the same as thetransition at the pressurization port 78. However, in alternativeembodiments, each outlet port transition may have a differentconfiguration (e.g., radius of curvature, length, profile, initialdiameter, etc.) than the pressurization port transition. Furthermore, incertain embodiments, certain outlet port transitions may differ from oneanother based on the expected flow into the respective outlet ports 54.In certain embodiments, certain outlet port transitions and/or thepressurization port transition may be omitted (e.g., a constant diameterport may extend from the face element).

In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet ports 54 and thepressurization port 78 each include a barb 166 at the distal end of therespective port. Each barb 166 is configured to facilitate retention ofa hose on the respective port. As illustrated, each barb 166 includes anangled portion 168 configured to enable a hose to engage the outlet port54 or the pressurization port 78. Once the hose is engaged with therespective port, a hose clamp may be positioned around the hose betweena proximal end of the port and the barb 166 (e.g., between the barb 166and the transition 84). The hose clamp may then be tightened to compressthe hose such that the inner diameter of the hose is less than themaximum diameter of the barb. As a result, movement of the hose awayfrom the port may be blocked by contact between the hose and a retainingsurface 170 of the barb 166. Accordingly, the hose may remain coupled tothe port during operation of the air cart and implement. In certainembodiments, the height of the retaining surface 170 (i.e., the radialextent of the retaining surface beyond the outer surface of the port)may be particularly selected such that the hose clamp may be tightenedto a degree that enables the hose to rotate about the port whileblocking movement of the end of the hose relative to the port (e.g.,blocking longitudinal movement of the hose end away from the port,blocking lateral and/or vertical movement of the hose end relative tothe port, etc.). While each port in the illustrated embodiment includesone barb, it should be appreciated that certain ports may include moreor fewer barbs. For example, in certain embodiments, certain ports mayinclude 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or more barbs. Moreover, while each illustratedbarb includes an angled portion and a retaining surface, it should beappreciated that other barb shapes (e.g., arcuate, polygonal, etc.) maybe utilized in alternative embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the plenum of FIG. 4. As illustrated, the body48 of the plenum 36 expands vertically from the first end 52 to thesecond end 56. The vertical expansion increases the cross-sectional areaof the plenum body 48 from the inlet 58 to the outlet ports 54 and thepressurization port 78. As a result, the velocity of the air flowdecreases and the static pressure of the air flow increases as the airflows from the inlet 58 to the ports 54, 78. As illustrated, a firstheight 172 of the plenum body 48 at the first end 52 (e.g., at the inlet58) is less than a second height 174 of the plenum body 48 at the secondend 56 (e.g., at the face element 60). For example, in certainembodiments, the second height 174 may be about 10 percent, about 20percent, about 25 percent, about 30 percent, about 40 percent, about 50percent, or more, larger that the first height 172. By way of furtherexample, the second height 174 may be about 5 to 75 percent, about 10 to60 percent, about 15 to 50 percent, or about 25 to 40 percent largerthan the first height 172. In alternative embodiments, the first height172 may be substantially equal to the second height 174.

As previously discussed, each rib is particularly shaped to reduce theeffect of the rib on the flow characteristics at the outlet ports 54 andat the pressurization port 78. Accordingly, a height 176 of each rib maybe particularly selected to reduce the pressure drop of the air flowproximate to the rib, thereby substantially maintaining the flowcharacteristics at the outlet ports 54 and at the pressurization port78. For example, in certain embodiments, the height 176 of each rib maybe about 1 percent, about 2 percent, about 3 percent, about 5 percent,about 6 percent, about 7 percent or more of the second height 174. Byway of example, the height 176 of each rib may be about 1 to 10 percent,about 2 to 8 percent, about 3 to 7 percent, or about 6 to 7 percent ofthe second height 174. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of eachrib is substantially equal. However, it should be appreciated that oneor more ribs may have different heights in alternative embodiments. Inaddition, while the height of each rib is substantially uniform betweenthe rounded leading edge and the rounded trailing edge in theillustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that in alternativeembodiments, the height of certain rib(s) may vary along the length ofthe rib (e.g., the height of certain rib(s) may increase along thelength from the leading edge to the trailing edge, the height of certainrib(s) may decrease along the length from the leading edge to thetrailing edge, etc.). Furthermore, one or more features described abovewith reference to FIGS. 4-10 (e.g., the ribs, the one-piece plenumconfiguration, the vertical expansion of the plenum body along thelongitudinal axis, the rounded transitions to the outlet ports andpressurization port, and the barbs on the outlet ports and thepressurization port) may be omitted from the plenum in certainembodiments.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a plenum 178 thatmay be employed within the air distribution system of FIG. 3. Similar tothe embodiment described above with reference to FIGS. 4-10, the plenum178 includes a body 48 having an inlet 58 positioned at a first end 52of the body 48 and configured to receive a flow of air from an airsource. The plenum body 48 also includes a first side 62 coupled to atop element 66 and to a bottom element 68, in which the top element 66is opposite the bottom element 68. In addition, the plenum body 48includes a second side 64, opposite the first side 62, coupled to thetop element 66 and the bottom element 68. Furthermore, the plenum body48 includes a face element 60 disposed on a second end 56 of the body48, opposite the first end 52. The plenum 178 also includes outlet ports54 and a pressurization port 78 extending from the face element 60 andconfigured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum 178. In theillustrated embodiment, the ports (e.g., the outlet ports 54 and thepressurization port 78) are arranged on the face element 60 in a firstrow 94, a second row 98, and a third row 102. The first row 94 ispositioned proximate to the top element 66, the third row 102 ispositioned proximate to the bottom element 68, and the second row 98 ispositioned between the first row 94 and the third row 102. Similar tothe embodiment described above with reference to FIGS. 4-10, a length ofthe second row is greater than a length of the first row and a length ofthe third row, and a shape of the face element 60 (e.g., a substantiallyhexagonal shape) is configured to accommodate the length of each row.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first side 62 and the secondside 64 include a first section 72, a second section 74, and a thirdsection 76. The first section 72 and the second section 74 aresubstantially flat. In addition, only the first and second sections 72,74 are connected to the face element 60, and only the third section 76is connected to the flange 50 at the inlet 58. The configuration of thesections enables the plenum body 48 to expand from the inlet 58 to theoutlet ports 54 and the pressurization port 78 while enabling the sides62, 64 to match the contours of the face element 60.

In the illustrated embodiment, the plenum body 48 is formed from a firstsheet of material 180, a second sheet of material 182, a third sheet ofmaterial 184, and fourth sheet of material 186. The first sheet ofmaterial 180 forms the top element 66, the first section 72 of the firstside 62, and the first section 72 of the second side 64. The secondsheet of material 182 forms the bottom element 68, the second section 74of the first side 62, and the second section 74 of the second side 64.In addition, the third sheet of material 184 forms the third section 76of the first side 62, and the fourth sheet of material 186 forms thethird section 76 of the second side 64. In certain embodiments, eachsheet of material may be formed from sheet steel, sheet aluminum, or anyother suitable material.

To form the plenum body 48 from the four sheets of material, the firstsheet of material 180 is bent along a first bend 188 and a second bend190 to form the top element 66, the first section 72 of the first side62, and the first section 72 of the second side 64. The first bend 188separates the top element 66 from the first section 72 of the first side62, and the second bend 190 separates the top element 66 form the firstsection 72 of the second side 64. Next, the second sheet of material 182is bent along a first bend 192 and a second bend to form the bottomelement 68, the second section 74 of the first side 62, and the secondsection 74 of the second side 64. The first bend 192 separates thebottom element 68 from the second section 74 of the first side 62, andthe second bend separates the bottom element 68 from the second section74 of the second side 64.

The first, second, and third sections of each side are then coupled toone another (e.g., via welding). For example, in certain embodiments,the first and second sections of each side may be welded to one anotheralong a first joint 194, the top element 66 is welded to the thirdsection 76 of each side along a second joint 196, the first section 72of each side is welded to the respective third section 76 along a thirdjoint 198, the second section 74 of each side is welded to therespective third section 76 along a fourth joint 200, and the bottomelement 68 is welded to the third section 76 of each side along a fifthjoint 202. In addition, the top element 66 is welded to the face element60 along a sixth joint 204, the first section 72 of each side is weldedto the face element 60 along a seventh joint 206, the second section 74of each side is welded to the face element 60 along an eighth joint 208,and the bottom element 68 is welded to the face element 60 along a ninthjoint. Furthermore, the top element 66 is welded to the flange 50 alonga tenth joint 210, the third section 76 of each side is welded to theflange 50 by an eleventh joint 212, and the bottom element is welded tothe flange 50 by a twelfth joint. Each port (e.g., the outlet ports 54and the pressurization port 78) is welded to the face element 60 by athirteenth joint 214.

In the illustrated embodiment, the plenum includes a baffle assemblyhaving baffles secured to the plenum body (e.g., by welded connections).As illustrated, each baffle includes two tabs 216 that each extendthrough a respective opening 218 in the top element 60. Each baffle mayalso include two additional tabs that each extend through a respectiveopening in the bottom element 68. The tabs and openings facilitatealignment of the baffles within the plenum body. The tabs 216 arecoupled to the top element 60 at the respective openings 218 byconnections 220 (e.g., welded connections), thereby securing the bafflesto the plenum body. While each baffle includes two tabs extendingthrough respective openings in the top element, and in certainembodiments, two tabs extending through respective openings in thebottom element, it should be appreciated that in alternativeembodiments, each baffle may include more or fewer tabs (e.g., 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, or more) extending through respective openings in a respectiveelement. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the baffles may becoupled to the plenum body without tabs in alternative embodiments.

While the elements are welded to one another at the joints and at thewelded connections in the illustrated embodiment, it should beappreciated that in alternative embodiments, at least a portion of theelements may be connected to one another at the respectivejoints/connections by another coupling system, such as fasteners,adhesive bonding, rivets, or tongue and groove connections, amongothers. Forming the plenum body by bending sheets of material and thencoupling the sheets of material to one another in the manner describedabove facilitates formation of a plenum body configured to provide aflow of air to a large number of ports (e.g., 13 ports) with desiredflow characteristics while reducing the number of parts in the plenumbody. Accordingly, the cost of producing a plenum having a large numberof ports (e.g., 13 or more ports) may be reduced, as compared to plenumshaving a body formed by coupling many smaller sheets of material (e.g.,more than 4) to one another.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the plenum of FIG. 11,taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 11. Similar to the embodiment describedabove with reference to FIGS. 4-10, the plenum 178 includes a baffleassembly 106 having first baffle 108 and a second baffle 110. Aspreviously discussed, each baffle is coupled to at least the top elementby tabs extending through respective openings and welded to the topelement. As illustrated, the baffle assembly forms three flow passages.The first passage 112 is disposed between the first and second baffles108, 110. A second passage 144 is formed between the first side 62 ofthe plenum body 48 and the first baffle 108, and a third passage 146 isformed between the second side 64 of the plenum body 48 and the secondbaffle 110. In certain embodiments, the first, second, and thirdpassages 112, 144, 146 have varying flow characteristics based on theair flow from the air source. For example, the air source may introducea high pressure air flow into the plenum 36 at the inlet 58 that isdirected toward the first passage 112. However, the first and secondbaffles 108, 110 are configured to divert a portion of the air flowtoward the second and third passages 144, 146. Additionally, theconfiguration of the baffle assembly 106 may modify the flowcharacteristics in each of the passages 112, 144, 146. For example, asthe cross-sectional area of each flow passage increases, the velocity ofthe flow traveling through the passage decreases. Moreover, the baffleassembly 106 may be configured to dissipate flow vortices at the inlet58 introduced by the air flow from the air source. Accordingly, thebaffle assembly 106 may be configured to obtain desired flowcharacteristics within the plenum 178.

As previously discussed, the second sheet of material 182 is bent alonga first bend 192 and a second bend 222 to form the bottom element 68,the second section 74 of the first side 62, and the second section 74 ofthe second side 64. The first bend 192 separates the bottom element 68from the second section 74 of the first side 62, and the second bend 222separates the bottom element 68 from the second section 74 of the secondside 64. In addition, the second section 74 of each side is welded tothe respective third section 76 along the fourth joint 200, and thebottom element 68 is welded to the third section 76 of each side alongthe fifth joint 202. Furthermore, the second section 74 of each side iswelded to the face element 60 along the eighth joint 208, and the bottomelement 68 is welded to the face element 60 along a ninth joint. Thethird section 76 of each side is also welded to the flange 50 by theeleventh joint 212, and the bottom element 68 is welded to the flange 50by the twelfth joint 224. As previously discussed, forming the plenumbody by bending sheets of material and then coupling the sheets ofmaterial to one another in the manner described above facilitatesformation of a plenum body configured to provide a flow of air to alarge number of ports (e.g., 13 ports) with desired flow characteristicswhile reducing the number of parts in the plenum body.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a further embodiment a plenum 226 thatmay be employed within the air distribution system of FIG. 3. In theillustrated embodiment, the plenum 226 includes a body 48 having aninlet 58 positioned at a first end 52 of the body 48 and configured toreceive a flow of air from an air source. The plenum body 48 alsoincludes a face element 60 positioned on a second end 56 of the body 48,opposite the first end 52. Similar to the embodiments described abovewith reference to FIGS. 4-12, the face element 60 has a substantiallyhexagonal shape. In addition, the plenum 226 includes multiple outletports 54 and a pressurization port 78 extending from the face element 60and configured to direct the flow of air out of the plenum 226. Theplenum 226 also includes a baffle assembly 228 disposed within the body48 and configured to control the flow of air through the plenum 226. Thebaffle assembly 228 includes two baffles 230, 232 and an adjustmentassembly 234. The adjustment assembly 234 is configured to control anangle of the baffles and/or a lateral position of the baffles.

In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment assembly 234 includes toppins 236, 238 extending from each baffle. The top pins 236, 238 engagecorresponding slots 240 in the top element 66. In addition, theadjustment assembly includes bottom pins extending from each baffle. Thebottom pins engage corresponding slots in the bottom element 68. Theadjustment assembly 234 is configured to control the angle of thebaffles 230, 232 and the lateral position of the baffles 230, 232 viamovement of the pins within the slots 240. In the illustratedembodiment, a first top pin 236 is positioned proximate to a leadingedge of each baffle, and a second top pin 238 is positioned proximate toa trailing edge of each baffle. In addition, as discussed in detailbelow, a first bottom pin is positioned proximate to the leading edge ofeach baffle, and a second bottom pin is positioned proximate to thetrailing edge of each baffle. The angle and the lateral position eachbaffle 230, 232 may be controlled via movement of the first and secondtop pins 236, 238 and the first and second bottom pins within respectiveslots 240.

In the illustrated embodiment, the plenum includes a panel 242configured to selectively couple to the body 48 to form a portion of thetop element 66. The panel 242 is configured to selectively block anopening in the body that facilitates insertion and removal of thebaffles 230, 232. Accordingly, with the panel 242 removed, an operatormay remove and replace the baffles (e.g., to install baffles having adifferent shape/configuration to establish the desired flowcharacteristics at the outlet ports and at the pressurization port).Once the baffles are disposed within the body 48, the operator maysecure the panel 242 to the body 48 with fasteners 244, such as theillustrated bolts. While the panel 242 is secured to the body 48 withfasteners in the illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated thatin alternative embodiments, the panel may be secured to the body byother coupling systems (e.g., magnets, latches, etc.). While the panel242 forms part of the top element 66 in the illustrated embodiment, itshould be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the panel mayform part of the bottom element, part of a side of the plenum body, orpart of multiple element(s)/side(s).

While baffle assembly 228 includes two baffles 230, 232 in theillustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that in alternativeembodiments, the baffle assembly 228 may include more or fewer baffles(e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more). Furthermore, while each baffleincludes two top pins 236, 238 and two bottom pins, it should beappreciated that in alternative embodiments, each baffle may includemore or fewer top pins and/or more or fewer bottom pins. For example, incertain embodiments, at least one baffle may include a single top pinand/or a single bottom pin. In such embodiments, the at least one bafflemay be rotatably coupled to the body (e.g., via a pivot coupled to thetop element and/or the bottom element). The angle of the at least onebaffle may be adjusted by moving the single top pin and/or the singlebottom pin within the respective slot(s), but the lateral position ofthe baffle may be fixed. Furthermore, while the slots 240 are curved inthe illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that in alternativeembodiments, certain slots may extend linearly along the lateral axis 80and/or the longitudinal axis 92. In such embodiments, the lateralposition and/or the longitudinal position of the baffle having pinsdisposed through the linear slots may be adjusted by moving the pinswithin the slots, but the angle of the baffle may be fixed. In furtherembodiments, certain curved slots may extend along the longitudinal axis92, thereby facilitating adjustment of the longitudinal position of abaffle having pins that extend through the slots.

In certain embodiments, the pins may include a locking featureconfigured to secure the pins within a selected position of therespective slots. For example, each pin may be threaded, and a nut maybe engaged with the threaded pin. Tightening the nut against the topelement or the bottom element may secure the pin in the selectedposition along the slot. In addition, while the illustrated adjustmentassembly 228 includes pins and slots, it should be appreciated that inalternative embodiments, the adjustment assembly may include otherdevices/systems configured to facilitate adjustment of the angle and/orthe lateral position of the baffles (e.g., locking pivots, tracks,etc.).

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the plenum of FIG. 13, taken alongline 14-14 of FIG. 13. In the illustrated embodiment, the baffleassembly 228 includes the first baffle 230 positioned on a first side ofthe longitudinal centerline 70 of the plenum 226 and the second baffle232 positioned on a second side of the longitudinal centerline, oppositethe first side. Similar to the embodiments described above withreference to FIGS. 4-12, the first baffle 230 and the second baffle 232are configured to establish a first passage 112 (e.g., central passage)between the first and second baffles, a second passage 144 between thefirst baffle 230 and the first side 62 of the plenum body 48, and athird passage 146 between the second baffle 232 and the second side 64of the plenum body 48. The baffles 230, 232 may be adjusted via theadjustment assembly to provide the desired flow characteristics withinthe plenum. For example, the baffles 230, 232 may be adjusted such thata first flow characteristic of the flow of air in the first passage 112is different than a second flow characteristic of the flow of air in thesecond and third passages 144, 146.

In the illustrated embodiment, a first bottom pin 246 is positionedproximate to the leading edge 248 of each baffle, and a second bottompin 250 is positioned proximate to the trailing edge 252 of each baffle.As illustrated, each pin 246, 250 is disposed within a respective slot240 within the bottom element 68. In the illustrated embodiment, theangle and the lateral position of each baffle is adjustable by movingthe pins within the slots. For example, the first angle 148 of the firstbaffle 230 may be adjusted by moving the first bottom pin 246 and thefirst top pin within the respective slots, and/or by moving the secondbottom pin 250 and the second top pin within the respective slots. Inaddition, the second angle 150 of the second baffle 232 may be adjustedby moving the first bottom pin 246 and the first top pin within therespective slots, and/or by moving the second bottom pin 250 and thesecond top pin within the respective slots. Furthermore, a position ofthe first baffle 230 along the lateral axis 80 may be adjusted by movingthe first bottom pin, the first top pin, the second bottom pin, and thesecond top pin within the respective slots. And, a position of thesecond baffle 230 along the lateral axis 80 may be adjusted by movingthe first bottom pin, the first top pin, the second bottom pin, and thesecond top pin within the respective slots. Adjusting the angle and thelateral position of each baffle varies the configuration of the firstpassage 112, the second passage, 144, the third passage 146, or acombination thereof. Accordingly, the angle and the lateral position ofeach baffle may be adjusted to achieve the desired flow characteristicswithin the plenum 226.

While the first baffle 230 and the second baffle 232 are adjustable inthe illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that in alternativeembodiments, the only one of the baffles may be adjustable. In addition,while each baffle includes two top pins and two bottom pins, it shouldbe appreciated that in alternative embodiments, one or more of the toppins and/or one or more of the bottom pins may be omitted. Furthermore,in certain embodiments, the adjustment assembly 234 may includeadditional adjustment devices to control the position and/or orientationof the baffles. For example, in certain embodiments, the adjustmentassembly may include a track assembly configured to facilitateadjustment of a longitudinal position of at least one baffle (e.g., inaddition to the pins and slots).

While the baffles are manually adjustable in the illustrated embodiment,it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the adjustmentassembly may include one or more actuators (e.g., pneumatic actuator(s),hydraulic actuator(s), electromechanical actuator(s), etc.) configuredto adjust the position and/or orientation of at least one baffle. Theactuator(s) may be communicatively coupled to a control system (e.g.,including an electronic controller, a valve assembly, etc.). In certainembodiments, the control system may be communicatively coupled to a userinterface that enables an operator to input the desired position and/ororientation of the baffle(s), and/or presents a visual indication of theposition and/or orientation of the baffle(s) to the operator.Additionally or alternatively, the control system may be configured toautomatically instruct the actuator(s) to adjust the position and/ororientation of the baffle(s) (e.g., based on determined flowcharacteristics within the plenum, operating conditions of the air cart,product type, implement configuration, etc.).

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a portion of the plenum 178 of FIG. 11,including flow restrictors 254. Each flow restrictor 254 is configuredto be disposed within a respective port (e.g., outlet port 54 orpressurization port 78) to restrict flow through the port (e.g., toreduce the flow rate of air through the port, to increase the pressureloss at the port, etc.). As illustrated, two outlet ports 54 of thefirst row 94 are blocked by plugs 256 (e.g., because the plenum includemore outlet ports than hoses on the air cart). Blocking the flow of airthrough the two outlet ports 54 may increase the flow of air through theother outlet ports 54 and/or through the pressurization port 78.Accordingly, restricting the flow of air through certain ports (e.g.,two outlet ports 54 of the first row 94) may establish the desired flowcharacteristics at each of the ports. While the illustrated plenum 178includes two flow restrictors, it should be appreciated that more orfewer flow restrictors (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more) maydisposed within respective ports. In addition, a minimum cross-sectionalarea (e.g., at a minimum diameter) of the air flow path through eachflow restrictor may be the same or different to establish the desiredflow characteristics through the plenum.

In the illustrated embodiment, each flow restrictor 254 includes a lip258 configured to engage a distal end 260 of the respective port (e.g.,outlet port 54, pressurization port 78, etc.) to block movement of theflow restrictor 254 into the body 48 (e.g., along the longitudinal axis92) while the flow restrictor 254 is disposed within the respectiveport. Furthermore, a fastener 262 is configured to extend through anopening 264 in the respective port and into the flow restrictor 254 tocouple the flow restrictor 254 to the respective port. For example, toinstall a flow restrictor into a port, the flow restrictor may bealigned with the port and then translated toward the port along thelongitudinal axis until the lip engages the distal end of the port. Thefastener may then be disposed through the opening in the port and intothe flow restrictor, thereby securing the flow restrictor to the port. Ahose may then be coupled to the port. For example, the hose may engagethe port and move along the port until a distal end of the hose contactsthe fastener. As discussed in detail below, each flow restrictor 254includes an internal passage having a minimum cross-sectional area lessthan a minimum internal cross-sectional area of the respective port.Accordingly, the flow restrictor restricts flow through the respectiveport.

FIG. 16 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the plenum 178 of FIG. 15,taken along line 16-16. As illustrated, the lip 258 of the flowrestrictor 254 engages the distal end 260 of the outlet port 54, and thefastener 262 extends through the opening 264 and into the flowrestrictor 254, thereby securing the flow restrictor 254 to the outletport 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the internal passage 266 of theflow restrictor 254 includes a converging section 268 (e.g., linearconverging, non-linear converging, etc.) and a straight section 270along a path 272 of the flow of air through the flow restrictor 254. Asillustrated, the diameter of the converging section 268 decreases alongthe path 272, thereby decreasing the cross-sectional area of theinternal passage 266 along the path 272. In addition, a diameter of thestraight section 270 is substantially constant. Accordingly, the minimumdiameter 274 of the internal passage 266 (e.g., at the straight section270) is less than the minimum internal diameter 276 of the outlet port54. Accordingly, the minimum cross-sectional area of the internalpassage 266 is less than the minimum internal cross-sectional area ofthe outlet port 54. While the illustrated flow restrictor does notinclude a diverging section, it should be appreciated that inalternative embodiments, a diverging section (e.g., downstream from thestraight section along the path of the flow of air) may be included.Furthermore, while the illustrated flow restrictor includes a convergingsection and a straight section, it should be appreciated that inalternative embodiments, the converging section or the straight sectionmay be omitted. In such embodiments, the remaining section may becombined with a diverging section.

While the air path through the ports and the air path through the flowrestrictors have circular cross sections in the illustrated embodiment,it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the air paththrough certain port(s) and/or the air path through certain flowrestrictor(s) may have other cross-sectional shapes (e.g., square,octagonal, elliptical, etc.). In such embodiments, the air path throughthe flow restrictor(s) may have a smaller cross-sectional area than theinternal cross-sectional area of the respective port(s). Furthermore,while the flow restrictor is coupled to the respective port by thefastener, it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, theflow restrictor may be coupled to the respective port by anothercoupling assembly (e.g., a latch, a magnet, a clamp, etc.). In addition,while the flow restrictor includes a lip in the illustrated embodiment,it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the lip may beomitted and/or the flow restrictor may include another featureconfigured to block movement into the plenum body while the flowrestrictor is disposed within the respective port.

Furthermore, while only two outlet ports include openings 264 to receivethe fasteners 262, it should be appreciated that in certain embodiments,each outlet port and/or the pressurization port may include an openingto receive a respective fastener. In further embodiments, the fastenersmay include self-tapping screws, and the openings may be omitted. Whilethe illustrated embodiment includes removable flow restrictors, itshould be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the flow restrictorsmay be integrally formed with the outlet port. While the flowrestrictors are disposed within ports of the plenum 178, it shouldappreciated that the flow restrictor may disposed within ports of theplenum 36, the plenum 226, or any other plenum having suitable ports. Inaddition, while the flow restrictor extends along a substantial portionof the longitudinal extent of the port in the illustrated embodiment, itshould be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the flowrestrictor may have a larger or smaller longitudinal extent. Forexample, in certain embodiments, the flow restrictor may be formed froma substantially flat sheet of material having an opening that forms theinternal passage.

While the plenums 36, 178, and 226 are described with reference to aseeder, it should be appreciated that the plenums may be used on otheragricultural equipment to facilitate distribution of an air flow. Forexample, one or more of the plenums described above with reference toFIGS. 4-10, FIGS. 11-12, and FIG. 13-14 may be employed to distribute anair flow on fertilizer application equipment, planters, and cottonpickers, among other agricultural equipment. In such applications, thepressurization port of the plenum may be omitted.

While only certain features have been illustrated and described herein,many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art.It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intendedto cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the truespirit of the disclosure.

1. A plenum configured to distribute a flow of air from an air source,comprising: a body having an inlet and a face element, wherein the inletis configured to receive the flow of air from the air source; aplurality of outlet ports extending from the face element, wherein eachoutlet port of the plurality of outlet ports is configured to direct theflow of air to an agricultural implement; and a pressurization portextending from the face element and configured to direct the flow of airsubstantially to a tank only; wherein the plurality of outlet ports andthe pressurization port are arranged on the face element in a first rowof ports and a second row of ports, and the ports of the first row arelaterally offset from the ports of the second row.
 2. The plenum ofclaim 1, wherein the body, the plurality of outlet ports, and thepressurization port are integrally formed from a single piece ofmaterial.
 3. The plenum of claim 1, wherein the pressurization port islaterally centered on the face element.
 4. The plenum of claim 1,wherein the pressurization port is vertically centered on the faceelement.
 5. The plenum of claim 1, comprising a baffle assembly disposedwithin the body and configured to control the flow of air through theplenum.
 6. The plenum of claim 1, comprising a flow restrictorconfigured to be disposed within one port of the pressurization port andthe plurality of outlet ports, wherein the flow restrictor includes aninternal passage having a minimum cross-sectional area less than aminimum internal cross-sectional area of the one port.
 7. The plenum ofclaim 1, wherein a shape of the face element is substantially hexagonal.8. An agricultural product distribution system, comprising: a tankconfigured to store an agricultural product for distribution by anagricultural implement; a plenum configured to distribute a flow of airfrom an air source, comprising: a body having an inlet and a faceelement, wherein the inlet is configured to receive the flow of air fromthe air source; a plurality of outlet ports extending from the faceelement, wherein each outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports isconfigured to direct the flow of air to the agricultural implement; anda pressurization port extending from the face element, wherein theplurality of outlet ports and the pressurization port are arranged onthe face element in a first row of ports and a second row of ports, andthe ports of the first row are laterally offset from the ports of thesecond row; and a pressurization line extending from the pressurizationport to the tank, wherein the pressurization line is configured todirect substantially the entire flow of air from the pressurization portto the tank.
 9. The agricultural product distribution system of claim 8,wherein the body, the plurality of outlet ports, and the pressurizationport are integrally formed from a single piece of material.
 10. Theagricultural product distribution system of claim 8, wherein thepressurization port is laterally centered on the face element.
 11. Theagricultural product distribution system of claim 8, wherein thepressurization port is vertically centered on the face element.
 12. Theagricultural product distribution system of claim 8, wherein the plenumcomprises a baffle assembly disposed within the body and configured tocontrol the flow of air through the plenum.
 13. The agricultural productdistribution system of claim 8, wherein the plenum comprises a flowrestrictor configured to be disposed within one port of thepressurization port and the plurality of outlet ports, wherein the flowrestrictor includes an internal passage having a minimum cross-sectionalarea less than a minimum internal cross-sectional area of the one port.14. The agricultural product distribution system of claim 8, wherein ashape of the face element is substantially hexagonal.
 15. Anagricultural product distribution system, comprising: an air sourceconfigured to supply a flow of air; a tank configured to store anagricultural product for distribution by an agricultural implement; ametering system configured to control a flow of the agricultural productfrom the tank to the agricultural implement via a plurality ofdistribution hoses; a plenum fluidly coupled to the air source, whereinthe plenum comprises: a body having an inlet and a face element, whereinthe inlet is configured to receive the flow of air from the air source;a plurality of outlet ports extending from the face element, whereineach outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports is configured todirect the flow of air to the agricultural implement via a respectivedistribution hose of the plurality of distribution hoses; and apressurization port extending from the face element, wherein theplurality of outlet ports and the pressurization port are arranged onthe face element in a first row of ports and a second row of ports, andthe ports of the first row are laterally offset from the ports of thesecond row; and a pressurization line extending from the pressurizationport to the tank, wherein the pressurization line is configured todirect substantially the entire flow of air from the pressurization portto the tank.
 16. The agricultural product distribution system of claim15, wherein the body, the plurality of outlet ports, and thepressurization port are integrally formed from a single piece ofmaterial.
 17. The agricultural product distribution system of claim 15,wherein the pressurization port is laterally centered on the faceelement.
 18. The agricultural product distribution system of claim 15,wherein a shape of the face element is substantially hexagonal.
 19. Theagricultural product distribution system of claim 15, wherein thepressurization port is vertically centered on the face element.
 20. Theagricultural product distribution system of claim 15, wherein the plenumcomprise a baffle assembly disposed within the body and configured tocontrol the flow of air through the plenum.